Electrosurgical system and method

Abstract

An electrosurgical system, device, and method includes an electrosurgical generator capable of supplying electrosurgical energy, and an electrosurgical instrument capable of delivering the electrosurgical energy for treating tissue, such as a tissue sealing operation and a tissue cutting operation. A controller is configured to receive a request to initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy, and to controllably operate the electrosurgical generator to selectively supply energy for the tissue sealing operation or the tissue cutting operation.

Description

A0012912W001ELECTRO SURGICAL SYSTEM AND METHODCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 717,262, filed November 6, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The disclosure generally relates to electrosurgical systems, and more particularly to control of energy delivery in an electrosurgical system.BACKGROUND

[0003] Electrosurgery typically involves application of electric current to biological tissue by way of an electrosurgical system. In some instances, an electrosurgical generator, e.g., a power supply or waveform generator, generates a high-frequency electrical current which can be supplied to an electrosurgical instrument having an active electrode and returned to the generator by a return electrode. In some implementations, the electrosurgical instrument carries both the active and return electrodes.

[0004] During electrosurgery, current generated by the electrosurgical generator is conducted through tissue disposed between the active and return electrodes. The tissue's impedance converts the electrosurgical energy into heat, leading to a rise in tissue temperature for treatment (e.g., tissue sealing, coagulation, dissection, or the like). Treatment of the tissue can be controlled by sensing, monitoring, or controlling various parameters of the electrosurgical energy supplied to the tissue.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an electrosurgical system. The electrosurgical system comprises an electrosurgical instrument configured to receive electrosurgical energy from a generator. The electrosurgical instrument comprises a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode located on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein theA0012912W001 end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0006] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to an electrosurgical system, comprising: an electrosurgical instrument configured to receive electrosurgical energy from a generator, the electrosurgical instrument comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, when the signal indicates the return path is present, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0007] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to an electrosurgical instrument comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having aA0012912W001 processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0008] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to an electrosurgical instrument comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode located on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a switch being activatable to prompt an initiation request; a sensor assembly configured to output a signal indicative of at least one parameter of the electrosurgical system, the at least one parameter comprising at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member and the second jaw member, or a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and the sensor assembly and configured to: receive the initiation request; and in response to the initiation request, perform a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0009] In yet another aspect, the disclosure relates to an electrosurgical generator comprising: at least one port configured to couple with an electrosurgical instrument for delivering the electrosurgical energy; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive an initiation request prompted by a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween.

[0010] In yet another aspect, the disclosure relates to an electrosurgical generator comprising: at least one port configured to couple with an electrosurgical instrument for delivering the electrosurgical energy; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive anA0012912W001 initiation request prompted by a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; determine that a return path is present between the first jaw member and the second jaw member based on at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member and the second jaw member being within an impedance threshold indicative of tissue contact with the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member being less than a maximum opening angle therebetween; and perform a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0011] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a computer-implemented method for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy to an electrosurgical instrument for treating tissue, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by a controller having a processor and a memory, an initiation request from a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; determining that a return path is present between the first jaw member and the second jaw member based on at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member and the second jaw member being within an impedance threshold indicative of tissue contact with the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member being less than a maximum opening angle therebetween; and performing a tissue sealing operation when the return path is present.

[0012] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a computer-implemented method for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy to an electrosurgical instrument for treating tissue, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by a controller having a processor and a memory, an initiation request from a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; determining that a return path is present between the first jaw member and the second jaw member based on at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member and the second jaw member being within an impedance threshold indicative of tissue contact with the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw memberA0012912W001 being less than a maximum opening angle therebetween; and performing a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation when the return path is present.

[0013] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: receive a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0014] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: receive an initiation request prompted by a switch on an electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; determine that a return path is present between the first jaw member and the second jaw member based on at least one of: a sensed impedance being within an impedance threshold indicative of tissue contact with the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member being less than a maximum opening angle therebetween; and initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0015] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to an electrosurgical system, comprising: an electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controllerA0012912W001 communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive at least one sensor signal corresponding to a sensed parameter of the electrosurgical system; determine, based on the at least one sensor signal, a presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for at least a tissue sealing operation when the return path is determined to be present.

[0016] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a computer-implemented method for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy in an electrosurgical system for treating tissue, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by a controller having a processor and a memory, a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receiving, by the controller, at least one sensor signal corresponding to a sensed parameter of the electrosurgical system; determining, by the controller, a presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member based on the at least one sensor signal; and initiating, by the controller, delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0017] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor does it limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Additional aspects, features, or advantages of examples will be set forth in part in the description that follows and, in part, will be apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of the disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The following drawing figures, which form a part of this application, are illustrative of aspects of systems and methods described below and are not meant to limit the scope of the disclosure in any manner, which scope shall be based on the claims.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an electrosurgical system including an electrosurgical instrument and a controller in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the electrosurgical instrument of FIG. 1 andA0012912W001 illustrating an end effector in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the electrosurgical system of FIG. 1 providing bipolar electrosurgical energy in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0022] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating the electrosurgical system of FIG. 1 providing monopolar electrosurgical energy in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0023] FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of the end effector of FIG. 2 in an open state.

[0024] FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of the end effector of FIG. 2 in a partially clamped state.

[0025] FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of the end effector of FIG. 2 in a fully clamped state.

[0026] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of controlling the electrosurgical system of FIG. 1 in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0027] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating determination of a return path in the method of FIG. 8.

[0028] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating another method of controlling the electrosurgical system of FIG. 1 in accordance with various aspects described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Electrosurgical devices can be configured to perform a variety of treatments on tissue, such as tissue sealing, coagulation, dissection, or the like. Existing solutions typically include separate switches or triggers for activating different treatments, such as a sealing trigger for initiating a tissue sealing process, or a push button for initiating a dissection process. During a tissue treatment, electrosurgical energy can be delivered to tissue by way of an end effector, such as a pair of jaw members having electrodes and arranged to clamp onto a portion of tissue. For instance, a tissue sealing operation can include clamping onto the tissue until a pressure threshold is reached, or until a gap between the jaw members reduces to a predetermined size, and delivering electrosurgical energy for tissue sealing once suitably clamped. Such an end effector can also be configured for tissue cutting, such as dissection of sealed tissue, or for extended cutting by moving the end effector through a portion of tissue while delivering electrosurgical energy.

[0030] In some instances, a treatment process may call for extended cutting or rapid cutting through vascular tissue where fluid management or coagulation would be beneficial. Aspects ofA0012912W001 the disclosure provide for an electrosurgical system, device, and method for delivering electrosurgical energy for tissue sealing without need of the jaw members being fully clamped onto the tissue. Such a tissue sealing operation can be initiated based on a determined or sensed return path through the tissue disposed between the jaw members, including initiating energy delivery upon initial contact with the tissue. Aspects of the disclosure additionally provide for a multi-step tissue treatment wherein activation of a single switch can prompt a tissue sealing process automatically followed by a tissue cutting process, including a repeated cycle of alternating tissue sealing and tissue cutting processes when the switch is held in activation. Such a repeating cycle can provide for rapid tissue cutting with enhanced coagulation during treatment of vascular tissue.

[0031] As used herein, the terms “a” or “an” are defined as one or more than one. Also, the use of introductory phrases such as “at least one” and “one or more” in the claims should not be construed to imply that the introduction of another claim element by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim element to containing only one such element, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an.” The same holds true for the use of definite articles. In addition, “a set” of elements as may be used herein can refer to any number of elements, including only one element.

[0032] Unless stated otherwise, terms such as "first" and "second" are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the components such terms describe, and are not intended to indicate relative, temporal, or other prioritization of such components.

[0033] While terms such as “voltage,” “current,” “power,” and “energy” may be used herein, it is understood by one skilled in the art that these terms can be interchangeable when describing aspects of an electrical circuit or circuit operations. Additionally, as used herein, components being “communicatively coupled,” “electrically connected,” or “electrically coupled” can include a wired or wireless connection between the respective components. Such an electrical connection can include a physical or wired connection, including, but not limited to, board-to- board connections, cable-to-cable connections, cable-to-board connections, or the like. Such an electrical connection can also include wireless connections, including, but not limited to, radio frequency (RF) transmission, Wi-Fi (e.g. 802.11 networks), Bluetooth, or the like.

[0034] As used herein, while sensors can be described as “sensing,” “detecting,” orA0012912W001“measuring” a certain property, such sensing, detecting, or measuring can include determining a value indicative of that property, or related to that property, rather than directly sensing the property itself. Such determined values can be provided to additional components, such as a controller or processor, and the controller or processor can determine a value, electrical characteristic, or the like representative of the sensed property.

[0035] Additionally, as used herein, a “controller” or “controller module” can include a component configured or adapted to provide instruction, control, operation, or any form of communication for operable components to effect the operation thereof. Such a controller can include any known processor, microcontroller, or logic device, including, but not limited to: field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a proportional controller (P), a proportional integral controller (Pl), a proportional derivative controller (PD), a proportional integral derivative controller (PID controller), a hardware- accelerated logic controller (e.g. for encoding, decoding, transcoding, etc.), the like, or a combination thereof. Such a controller as used herein can be configured to execute program code to effect operational or functional outcomes, including carrying out various methods, functions, processing tasks, calculations, comparisons, sensing or measuring of values, or the like, to enable or achieve technical operations described herein. The operation or functional outcomes can be based on one or more inputs, stored data values, sensed or measured values, true or false indications, or the like. Such a controller can further include a data storage component or memory accessible by the processor. The memory can be transient or non-transient, or volatile or non-volatile. For example, the memory can include computer-readable media, which can be volatile or non-volatile, as well as removable or non-removable media. Some non-limiting examples of types of media that can be provided include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired content and which can be accessed by the processor.

[0036] All directional references as may be used herein, e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise, etc., are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure and do not create limitations, particularly as to theA0012912W001 position, orientation, or use of the disclosure. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, or joined) are to be construed broadly and can include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to one another. Additionally, the drawings of the present disclosure are for purposes of illustration only, and the dimensions, positions, order, or relative sizes of components reflected in the drawings can vary.

[0037] Referring now to FIG. 1, an electrosurgical system 100 is shown including an electrosurgical generator 110 (also referred to herein as “generator 110”) and an electrosurgical instrument 120 (also referred to herein as “instrument 120”). In the illustrated example, the instrument 120 is in the form of a handheld vessel sealing and dissection device configured to perform sealing operations and cutting or dissection operations. It will be understood that aspects of the disclosure are not so limited, and can have applicability in other surgical instruments, including ultrasonic surgical instruments, robotic surgical instruments, or network-controllable surgical instruments in some examples.

[0038] The generator 110 can include a generator housing 111, a display 112, one or more switches 114, and one or more generator ports 115 configured to provide at least electrosurgical energy for the instrument 120. The generator 110 can be configured to generate electrosurgical energy having with various types or characteristics. For example, the generator 110 can generate energy of various types, such as radio frequency (RF) energy, ultrasonic energy, thermal energy, or the like. The generator 110 can also generate a selected type of energy having various selected characteristics such as phases, frequencies, amplitudes, waveforms, time durations, or the like.

[0039] A controller 155 having a processor 156 and a memory 158 is also provided in the electrosurgical system 100. The controller 155 is configured to controllably operate components of the system 100, such as the generator 110 or the instrument 120. In the example depicted, the controller 155 is located within the generator 110. In some implementations, the controller 155 can be located within the instrument 120. In yet another example, the controller 155 can be located remotely from the generator 110 or the instrument 120, such as on a remote server, a mobile device, or the like. In still another example, the controller 155 can include multiple controllers, such as a first controller within the generator 110 and a second controller located within the instrument 120. In such a case, it is contemplated that the multiple controllers canA0012912W001 distribute or share functionality described herein for the controller 155 in the illustrated example.

[0040] The electrosurgical instrument 120 can include a housing 124, an elongated shaft 126 extending from the housing 124, and an end effector 128 coupled to a distal end of the shaft 126. The housing 124 can optionally include a handle 121 as shown. The housing 124 can also include one or more switches, illustrated as a switch 122, for user control or operation of the instrument 120. Activation of the switch 122 can initiate at least one of a tissue sealing process, or a multi-step treatment with a tissue sealing operation followed by a tissue cutting operation. In some implementations, the switch 122 can be a dedicated switch on the instrument 120 for activating the multi-step treatment. In some implementations, the switch 122 can be configured for selective activation of multiple tissue treatments or processes.

[0041] As shown, the switch 122 is in the form of a push button that transmits an initiation request over the internal circuitry 123 upon activation. The initiation request can be received by the controller 155 via the internal circuitry 123 and the cable 105. It is also contemplated that the handle 121 can include or actuate a second switch for transmitting additional initiation requests to the controller 155. Any number of switches can be provided on the instrument 120.

[0042] User activation of the switch(es) 114 or the switch 122 can place the generator 110 into a selected mode of operation, initiate a cycle of operation of the generator 110, or change a type, amount, or characteristic of the electrosurgical energy supplied by the generator 110, or the like. In this manner, the instrument 120 may be configured to request multiple types or characteristics of electrosurgical energy to be supplied by the generator 110.

[0043] The generator 110 can be electrically coupled to the instrument 120 for supplying electrosurgical energy, for sending or receiving control signals or sensor data, or the like. In the non-limiting example shown, the instrument 120 includes an instrument port 125, and a cable 105 is shown connecting the generator port 115 to the instrument port 125 for power delivery or signal communication. An internal path or circuitry 123 can electrically couple the instrument port 125 to the end effector 128. In this manner, the generator 110 can supply electrosurgical energy to the end effector 128, such as for tissue treatment. In addition, it is contemplated that the generator 110 can be electrically coupled to the instrument 120 by a wired or wireless connection, or by a network that may include combinations of wired and wireless connections, in some examples. A return electrode or a return pad 108 is also shown having a dedicated path to the generator 110.A0012912W001

[0044] The end effector 128 can be configured for a variety of treatment processes, such as clamping, spacing, sealing, or cutting of tissue. As shown, the end effector 128 includes a set of jaw members 130 including a first jaw member 131 and a second jaw member 132. The first and second jaw members 131, 132 can be movable, e.g. pivotable, relative to one another such that they may be spaced apart or brought together for clamping processes. In some examples, the first jaw member 131 can be pivotable and the second jaw member 132 can be fixed. In some examples, each of the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132 can be pivotable.

[0045] A sensor assembly 150 can also be provided and communicatively coupled to the controller 155. As shown, the sensor assembly 150 includes a first sensor 151 and a second sensor 152 within the instrument 120, and a third sensor 153 within the generator 110. Any number of sensors can be provided, including only one, such as the first sensor 151.Furthermore, while the first and second sensor 151, 152 are shown within the housing 124, it will be understood that the first or second sensor 151, 152 can be positioned in any suitable location, including being disposed on the first jaw member 131 or the second jaw member 132.

[0046] The sensor assembly 150 can include any suitable sensor for sensing or detecting various operating conditions of the system 100, such as position sensors, impedance sensors, force sensors, angle sensors, thermal sensors, acoustic sensors, light sensors, encoders, proximity sensors, pressure sensors, or the like, in non-limiting examples. For instance, any or all of the first sensor 151, the second sensor 152, or the third sensor 153 can provide output signals indicative of impedance measurements, such as for sensing tissue thickness or time-varying material properties of the tissue as electrosurgical energy is applied. In some implementations, the sensor assembly 150 can include one or more sensors disposed in the first or second jaw members 131, 132 for sensing an impedance of clamped tissue.

[0047] In addition, the electrosurgical system 100 can include a remote device 157 communicatively coupled to any or all of the controllers 155, the generator 110, or the instrument 120. As shown, the remote device 157 is communicatively coupled to the controller 155, such as by way of a network interface. The remote device 157 can transmit or receive control signals, sensor signals, parameters, conditions, or the like for the electrosurgical system 100. In some implementations, the remote device 157 can include a server, a mobile device, a remote user interface, or the like. In addition, the remote device 157 can be communicatively coupled with components of the electrosurgical system 100 using a wired connection or aA0012912W001 wireless connection.

[0048] Turning to FIG. 2, the electrosurgical instrument 120 is shown in further detail. A set of electrodes 140 is provided in the system 100 for delivering electrosurgical energy supplied by the generator 110 (FIG. 1). More specifically, the set of electrodes 140 includes a first electrode 141 disposed on the first jaw member 131, and a second electrode 142 and a third electrode 143 each disposed on the second jaw member 132. The return pad 108 (FIG. 1) can also define a fourth electrode 144 in the set of electrodes 140. The set of electrodes 140 can include any number or arrangement of electrodes.

[0049] For visual clarity, the first electrode 141, the second electrode 142, and the third electrode 143 are schematically illustrated with exaggerated thicknesses that are stepped or offset from the first and second jaw members 131, 132. It will be understood that the set of electrodes 140 can have any suitable geometric profile, including being flush, co-planar, or the like with the first jaw member 131 or the second jaw member 132. For instance, any or all of the first electrode 141, the second electrode 142, or the third electrode 143 can be arranged to not protrude beyond a tissue contact surface of the corresponding first jaw member 131 or second jaw member 132.

[0050] The generator 110 can also supply electrosurgical energy by way of different modalities. More specifically, a bipolar energy modality (also referred to herein as “bipolar electrosurgical energy”) is shown in FIG. 3, and a monopolar energy modality (also referred to herein as “monopolar electrosurgical energy”) is shown in FIG. 4.

[0051] In FIG. 3, a flow diagram 300 illustrates interaction between components of the electrosurgical system 100 during one example of operation for delivering bipolar electrosurgical energy. The flow diagram 300 schematically illustrates the switch 122, the controller 155, the sensor assembly 150, the generator 110, the first electrode 141, and the second electrode 142.

[0052] As shown, activation of the switch 122 prompts an initiation request 301 for transmission to the controller 155, such as for initiating a tissue sealing operation, a coagulating operation, or a tissue cutting operation, in some examples. The initiation request 301 can be transmitted directly from the switch 122 to the controller 155 in some implementations.Additionally, or alternatively, activation of the switch 122 can generate an output signal, and the controller 155 can receive the output signal and determine the initiation request 301 based thereon. In still another example, activation of the switch 122 can generate an output signal, andA0012912W001 an additional component (e.g., a second controller, a microcontroller, or an external processor) can receive the output signal, generate the initiation request 301, and transmit the initiation request 301 to the controller 155.

[0053] The sensor assembly 150 can also transmit one or more sensor signals 303 to the controller 155. The sensor signals 303 can include parameters of the electrosurgical system 100. In some non-limiting examples, the sensor signals 303 can include a sensed impedance between the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132, a sensed pressure between the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132, a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132, an elapsed time, a power level, a component temperature, or the like. In some implementations, the first and second electrodes 141, 142 can repeatedly or continuously provide signals to the controller 155 indicative of tissue impedance during operation. In another example, the controller 155 can determine an impedance of clamped tissue by instructing the generator 110 to transmit a therapeutic RF signal through the tissue and evaluating the therapeutic RF signal during transmission. In such a case, the controller 155 can compare a signal strength of the transmitted RF signal with a signal strength of the received or returned RF signal for determining tissue impedance.

[0054] The controller 155 can additionally determine one or more conditions of the electrosurgical system 100. Such a determination can be based on one or more signals from the sensor assembly 150 including, but not limited to: whether the switch 122 was activated; whether the switch 122 was released; whether the switch 122 is being continuously activated (e.g., held and depressed); whether a tissue sealing process is currently in progress; whether an in-progress tissue sealing process has completed; whether a successful tissue seal has been formed during a tissue sealing process; whether a tissue cutting process is currently in progress, whether an inprogress tissue cutting process has completed, or the like.

[0055] In response to the initiation request 301, the controller 155 transmits a set of control signals 305 to the generator 110 for supplying electrosurgical energy 307 to the set of electrodes 140. In the non-limiting example shown, the set of control signals 305 will be described in the context of the generator 110 selectively supplying the electrosurgical energy 307 to the first electrode 141, and with the second electrode 142 configured as a return path to the generator 110. It will be understood that the electrosurgical energy 307 can be supplied by the generator 110 to any or all of the first electrode 141, the second electrode 142, or the third electrode 143A0012912W001 for tissue treatment. Additional electrodes or return paths not explicitly shown can nevertheless be provided.

[0056] In some examples, the set of control signals 305 can include instructions for supplying power to one or more specified electrodes, e.g. the first electrode 141. Further still, the set of control signals 305 can include one or more specified energy properties, such as a modality (e.g., a monopolar energy modality or a bipolar energy modality), a type of energy (e.g., RF), or an energy characteristic (e.g., a frequency, a phase, an energy waveform, or the like). In some non-limiting examples, the set of control signals 305 can include supplying an initial therapeutic energy burst at the beginning of a treatment process, or supplying a later energy burst near the end of the treatment process as the tissue impedance reduces.

[0057] The generator 110 can receive the set of control signals 305 and supply the electrosurgical energy 307 to the first electrode 141. The electrosurgical energy 307 can include selected energy properties including, but not limited to, a bipolar energy modality, an energy type, a frequency range, a power range, a maximum power limit, a time duration, a waveform, or the like. At least some energy properties of the electrosurgical energy 307 can be predetermined by any or all of: a user-selected setting on either or both of the generator 110 or the instrument 120; or hardwired within the internal circuitry 123; or stored within the memory 158 (FIG. 1). It will be understood that the controller 155 can also dynamically, in real time, select or determine energy properties for the generator 110 to supply during operation. For example, the controller 155 can receive one or more signals from the sensor assembly 150, and determine one or more energy properties to supply to the instrument 120 based on the one or more signals. Such a determination can include comparing the one or more signals with a threshold value in some implementations.

[0058] Turning to FIG. 4, another flow diagram 400 illustrates interaction between components of the electrosurgical system 100 during an example of operation for delivering monopolar electrosurgical energy. The flow diagram 400 schematically illustrates the switch 122, the controller 155, the sensor assembly 150, the generator 110, the third electrode 143, and the return pad 108 forming the fourth electrode 144. The monopolar energy modality can include supplying current to a single electrode at the end effector 128 and returning the current to the generator 110 by way of the return pad 108, which is typically located on a patient’s body and spaced from the end effector 128. In this manner, the monopolar energy modality provides for aA0012912W001 current path or loop from the generator 110, to the end effector 128, to the patient’s body and return pad 108, and back to the generator 110.

[0059] As shown, activation of the switch 122 prompts an initiation request 401 for transmission to the controller 155, such as for initiating a tissue sealing operation, a coagulating operation, or a tissue cutting operation, in some examples. The initiation request 401 can be transmitted directly from the switch 122 to the controller 155 in some implementations. Additionally, or alternatively, activation of the switch 122 can generate an output signal, and the controller 155 can receive the output signal and determine the initiation request 401 based thereon. In still another example, activation of the switch 122 can generate an output signal, and an additional component (e.g., a second controller, a microcontroller, or an external processor) can receive the output signal, generate the initiation request 301, and transmit the initiation request 401 to the controller 155.

[0060] The sensor assembly 150 can also transmit one or more sensor signals 403 to the controller 155. The sensor signals 403 can include parameters of the electrosurgical system 100. In some non-limiting examples, the sensor signals 403 can include a sensed impedance between the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132, a sensed pressure between the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132, a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132, an elapsed time, a power level, a component temperature, or the like. In some implementations, the first and second electrodes 141, 142 can repeatedly or continuously provide signals to the controller 155 indicative of tissue impedance during operation. In another example, the controller 155 can determine an impedance of clamped tissue by instructing the generator 110 to transmit a therapeutic RF signal through the tissue and evaluating the therapeutic RF signal during transmission. In such a case, the controller 155 can compare a signal strength of the transmitted RF signal with a signal strength of the received or returned RF signal for determining tissue impedance.

[0061] The controller 155 can additionally determine one or more conditions of the electrosurgical system 100. Such a determination can be based on one or more signals from the sensor assembly 150 including, but not limited to: whether the switch 122 was activated; whether the switch 122 was released; whether the switch 122 is being continuously activated (e.g., held and depressed); whether a tissue sealing process or tissue cutting process is currently in progress; whether an in-progress tissue sealing process or tissue cutting process has completed; whether aA0012912W001 successful tissue seal has been formed during a tissue sealing process; or the like.

[0062] In response to the initiation request 401, the controller 155 transmits a set of control signals 405 to the generator 110 for selectively supplying electrosurgical energy. In the nonlimiting example shown, the set of control signals 405 will be described in the context of the generator 110 selectively supplying electrosurgical energy to the first electrode 141 and with the return pad 108 configured as a return path to the generator 110. It will be understood that electrosurgical energy can be supplied by the generator 110 to any or all of the first electrode 141, the second electrode 142, or the third electrode 143 for tissue treatment. Additional electrodes or return paths not explicitly shown can nevertheless be provided.

[0063] With general reference to FIGS. 5-7, the end effector 128 can define one or more states during operation, such as fully closed, fully clamped, partially clamped, fully open, or the like, based at least on an amount of separation between the first and second jaw members 131, 132. The end effector 128 is shown in an open state 161 in FIG. 5, in a partially clamped position 162 in FIG. 6, and in a fully clamped position 163 in FIG. 7. The sensor assembly 150 is communicatively coupled to the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132 by the internal circuitry 123. For visual clarity the set of electrodes 140 are omitted in the depicted examples; however, it will be understood that the first electrode 141, the second electrode 142, and the third electrode 143 are disposed on the first and second jaw members 131, 132 as described above.

[0064] In the illustrated example of the open state 161, the tissue 129 does not make contact across both jaw members 131, 132 such that a return path is not present between the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132. An opening angle 135A is also shown between the first jaw member 131 and the second jaw member 132. The sensor assembly 150 can include an angle sensor in some implementations, such that a value for the sensed opening angle 135A can be transmitted to the controller 155 (FIG. 1). The sensor assembly 150 can additionally include an impedance sensor, where a value for sensed impedance (e.g., between the first and second jaw members 131, 132) can be transmitted to the controller 155. The sensor assembly 150 can additionally include a pressure sensor, where a sensed pressure (e.g., between the first and second jaw members 131, 132) can be transmitted to the controller 155. Such an angle sensor, impedance sensor, or pressure sensor described herein can be provided within the end effector 128 in some examples, or within the generator 110 (FIG. 1) in some examples.A0012912W001

[0065] When the end effector 128 is in the partially clamped position 162 (FIG. 6), the tissue 129 makes contact with the first and second jaw members 131, 132 such that a return path 170 is formed through the tissue 129 as shown. The first and second jaw members 131, 132 also define an opening angle 135B, smaller than the opening angle 136Aas shown. When the end effector 128 is in the fully clamped position 163 (FIG. 7), the return path 170 is also present, and an opening angle 135C is smaller than the opening angles 135B, 135A. In the fully clamped position 163, a pressure can be

[0066] Referring generally to FIGS. 8-11, some examples of methods are described below that can be implemented in the electrosurgical system 100. It will be understood that the described methods do not limit the disclosure in any way and can also be implemented in other systems. Additionally, the electrosurgical system 100 can be used to perform other methods not explicitly described herein.

[0067] Turning to FIG. 8, a method 500 is shown for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy, such as to the instrument 120 (FIG. 1). At 502, the method 500 includes receiving, by the controller 155, an initiation request prompted by activation of the switch 122 (FIG. 1). At 504, the method 500 also includes determining, by the controller 155, that the return path 170 is present through the tissue 129. The method continues at 506 with initiating delivery of electrosurgical energy for at least a tissue sealing operation when the return path 170 is present. It is also contemplated that pressing and holding the switch 122 (FIG. 1) can lead to a repeated, alternating sequence of tissue sealing and tissue cutting processes.

[0068] FIG. 9 illustrates additional details of the method 500 and the determining step 504. More specifically, the determining step 504 includes, at 504A, sensing at least one parameter of the electrosurgical system 100, such as an impedance, opening angle, pressure, or the like. At 504B, the controller 155 determines whether the return path 170 is present across the first and second jaw members 131, 132 (FIG. 6). The determination at 504B can be based on the sensed at least one parameter, including whether the sensed at least one parameter is indicative of tissue contact across the first and second jaw members 131, 132. If the return path 170 is present, the method proceeds to 506 (FIG. 8) wherein electrosurgical energy is delivered for tissue sealing. For example, the controller 155 can determine the return path 170 is present upon initial tissue contact across the first and second jaw members 131, 132 (FIG. 6). The return path 170 may also be determined to be present based on the opening angle 135B (FIG. 6) between first and secondA0012912W001 jaw members 131, 132 (FIG. 6).

[0069] Turning to FIG. 10, another method 600 is shown for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy in the electrosurgical system 100. At 602, the method 600 includes receiving, by the controller 155, an initiation request prompted by activation of the switch 122 (FIG. 1). At 604, the method includes determining, by the controller 155, that the return path 170 is present between the first and second jaw members 131, 132. The method continues at 606 with initiating delivery of electrosurgical energy for performing a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation. It is also contemplated that pressing and holding the switch 122 (FIG. 1) can lead to a repeated sequence of tissue sealing followed by tissue cutting.

[0070] Aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to block diagrams and / or operational illustrations of methods, systems, and computer program products according to aspects of the disclosure. The functions / acts noted in the blocks may occur out of the order as shown in any flowchart. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality / acts involved.

[0071] The description and illustration of one or more aspects provided in this application are not intended to limit or restrict the scope of the disclosure as claimed in any way. The aspects, examples, and details provided in this application are considered sufficient to convey possession and enable others to make and use the best mode of claimed disclosure. The claimed disclosure should not be construed as being limited to any aspect, example, or detail provided in this application. Regardless of whether shown and described in combination or separately, the various features (both structural and methodological) are intended to be selectively included or omitted to produce an embodiment with a particular set of features. Having been provided with the description and illustration of the present application, one skilled in the art may envision variations, modifications, and alternate aspects falling within the spirit of the broader aspects of the general inventive concept embodied in this application that do not depart from the broader scope of the claimed disclosure.

[0072] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that boundaries between the functionality of the above-described operations are merely illustrative. The functionality of multiple operations may be combined into a single operation, and / or the functionality of a singleA0012912W001 operation may be distributed in additional operations. Moreover, alternative embodiments may include multiple instances of a particular operation, and the order of operations may be altered in various other embodiments.

[0073] Although the disclosure provides specific examples, various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Any benefits, advantages, or solutions to problems that are described herein with regard to a specific example are not intended to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or element of any or all the claims.

[0074] Further aspects of the disclosure are provided by the following clauses:

[0075] An electrosurgical system, comprising: an electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0076] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the signal indicative of the presence of the return path comprises at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed pressure between the first jaw member and the second jaw member.

[0077] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the controller is furtherA0012912W001 configured to determine that the return path is present based on the sensed impedance being within an impedance threshold indicative of tissue contact with the first jaw member and the second jaw member.

[0078] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the return path is present based on the sensed opening angle being less than a maximum opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member.

[0079] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the end effector is in one of a partially clamped state, a fully clamped state, or an open state based on the signal indicative of the presence of the return path.

[0080] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the end effector is in one of a partially clamped state, a fully clamped state, or an open state based on at least one of: a comparison of the sensed impedance with an impedance threshold; a comparison of the sensed pressure with a pressure threshold; or a comparison of the sensed opening angle with a threshold angle.

[0081] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the controller is further configured to automatically initiate a tissue cutting operation upon completion of the tissue sealing operation in response to the initiation request.

[0082] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering bipolar energy to the tissue using the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0083] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the tissue cutting operation comprises delivering electrosurgical energy to the tissue using at least the third electrode.

[0084] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the electrosurgical energy is bipolar energy, with one of the first electrode or the second electrode defining a return path.

[0085] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering a first bipolar energy for a first predetermined time interval, and the tissue cutting operation comprises delivering a second bipolar energy for a second predetermined time interval.

[0086] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the electrosurgical instrumentA0012912W001 comprises a robotic instrument configured for controllable operation by a remote device.

[0087] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the electrosurgical instrument comprises a handheld instrument configured for manual operation in at least one of a laparoscopic environment or an open surgical environment.

[0088] An electrosurgical system, comprising: an electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, when the signal indicates the return path is present, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0089] The electrosurgical system as described herein, further comprising a sensor assembly communicatively coupled to the controller and configured to output at least one sensor signal indicative of at least one parameter of the electrosurgical system.

[0090] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the at least one parameter comprises at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed pressure between the first jaw member and the second jaw member.

[0091] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the switch is configured for continuous activation, and wherein the controller is further configured to repeatedly initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for the tissue sealing operation automatically followed by the tissue cutting operation while the switch is in continuous activation.A0012912W001

[0092] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein during continuous activation of the switch, the controller is further configured to: upon completion of the tissue cutting operation, perform a check for the presence of the return path; and when the return path is present, initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for the tissue sealing operation automatically followed by the tissue cutting operation.

[0093] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the controller is further configured to cease delivery upon the switch being released from the continuous activation.

[0094] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering bipolar energy to the tissue using the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0095] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the tissue cutting operation comprises delivering electrosurgical energy to the tissue using at least the third electrode.

[0096] The electrosurgical system as described herein, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering the bipolar energy for a first predetermined time interval, and wherein the tissue cutting operation comprises delivering the electrosurgical energy for a second predetermined time interval.

[0097] An electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0098] An electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally fromA0012912W001 the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, when the signal indicates the return path is present, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0099] An electrosurgical generator, comprising: at least one port configured to couple with an electrosurgical instrument for delivering electrosurgical energy, with the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument; receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0100] An electrosurgical generator, comprising: at least one port configured to couple with an electrosurgical instrument for delivering electrosurgical energy, with the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument; receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealingA0012912W001 operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0101] A computer-implemented method for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy to an electrosurgical instrument for treating tissue, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by a controller having a processor and a memory, a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receiving, by the controller, a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and initiating, by the controller, delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0102] A computer-implemented method for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy to an electrosurgical instrument for treating tissue, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by a controller having a processor and a memory, a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receiving, by the controller, a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and initiating, by the controller, delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0103] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: receive a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0104] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executedA0012912W001 by a processor, cause the processor to: receive an initiation request prompted by a switch on an electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; determine that a return path is present between the first jaw member and the second jaw member based on at least one of: a sensed impedance being within an impedance threshold indicative of tissue contact with the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member being less than a maximum opening angle therebetween; and initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0105] An electrosurgical system, comprising: an electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive at least one sensor signal corresponding to a sensed parameter of the electrosurgical system; determine, based on the at least one sensor signal, a presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for at least a tissue sealing operation when the return path is determined to be present.

[0106] A computer-implemented method for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy in an electrosurgical system for treating tissue, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by a controller having a processor and a memory, a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receiving, by the controller, at least one sensor signal corresponding to a sensed parameter of the electrosurgical system;A0012912W001 determining, by the controller, a presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member based on the at least one sensor signal; and initiating, by the controller, delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0107] The following examples are illustrative of the techniques described herein.

[0108] Example 1. An electrosurgical system, comprising: an electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0109] Example 2. The electrosurgical system of example 1, wherein the signal indicative of the presence of the return path comprises at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed pressure between the first jaw member and the second jaw member.

[0110] Example 3. The electrosurgical system of example 2, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the return path is present based on the sensed impedance being within an impedance threshold indicative of tissue contact with the first jaw member and the second jaw member.

[0111] Example 4. The electrosurgical system of example 2, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the return path is present based on the sensed opening angle being less than a maximum opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member.

[0112] Example 5. The electrosurgical system of example 2, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the end effector is in one of a partially clamped state, a fully clamped state, or an open state based on the signal indicative of the presence of the return path.A0012912W001

[0113] Example 6. The electrosurgical system of example 5, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the end effector is in one of a partially clamped state, a fully clamped state, or an open state based on at least one of: a comparison of the sensed impedance with an impedance threshold; a comparison of the sensed pressure with a pressure threshold; or a comparison of the sensed opening angle with a threshold angle.

[0114] Example 7. The electrosurgical system of example 1, wherein the controller is further configured to automatically initiate a tissue cutting operation upon completion of the tissue sealing operation in response to the initiation request.

[0115] Example 8. The electrosurgical system of example 7, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering bipolar energy to the tissue using the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0116] Example 9. The electrosurgical system of example 8, wherein the tissue cutting operation comprises delivering electrosurgical energy to the tissue using at least the third electrode.

[0117] Example 10. The electrosurgical system of example 9, wherein the electrosurgical energy is bipolar energy, with one of the first electrode or the second electrode defining a return path.

[0118] Example 11. The electrosurgical system of example 7, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering a first bipolar energy for a first predetermined time interval, and the tissue cutting operation comprises delivering a second bipolar energy for a second predetermined time interval.

[0119] Example 12. The electrosurgical system of example 1, wherein the electrosurgical instrument comprises a robotic instrument configured for controllable operation by a remote device.

[0120] Example 13. The electrosurgical system of example 1, wherein the electrosurgical instrument comprises a handheld instrument configured for manual operation in at least one of a laparoscopic environment or an open surgical environment.

[0121] Example 14. An electrosurgical system, comprising: an electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and aA0012912W001 memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, when the signal indicates the return path is present, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0122] Example 15. The electrosurgical system of example 16, further comprising a sensor assembly communicatively coupled to the controller and configured to output at least one sensor signal indicative of at least one parameter of the electrosurgical system.

[0123] Example 16. The electrosurgical system of example 15, wherein the at least one parameter comprises at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed pressure between the first jaw member and the second jaw member.

[0124] Example 17. The electrosurgical system of example 16, wherein the switch is configured for continuous activation, and wherein the controller is further configured to repeatedly initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for the tissue sealing operation automatically followed by the tissue cutting operation while the switch is in continuous activation.

[0125] Example 18. The electrosurgical system of example 17, wherein during continuous activation of the switch, the controller is further configured to: upon completion of the tissue cuting operation, perform a check for the presence of the return path; and when the return path is present, initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for the tissue sealing operation automatically followed by the tissue cuting operation.

[0126] Example 19. The electrosurgical system of example 18, wherein the controller is further configured to cease delivery upon the switch being released from the continuous activation.

[0127] Example 20. The electrosurgical system of example 14, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering bipolar energy to the tissue using the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0128] Example 21. The electrosurgical system of example 20, wherein the tissue cuting operation comprises delivering electrosurgical energy to the tissue using at least the third electrode.

[0129] Example 22. The electrosurgical system of example 21, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering the bipolar energy for a first predetermined time interval, and wherein the tissue cuting operation comprises delivering the electrosurgical energy for a second predetermined time interval.A0012912W001

[0130] Example 23. An electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0131] Example 24. An electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, when the signal indicates the return path is present, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0132] Example 25. An electrosurgical generator, comprising: at least one port configured to couple with an electrosurgical instrument for delivering electrosurgical energy, with the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument; receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposedA0012912W001 between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0133] Example 26. An electrosurgical generator configured to supply electrosurgical energy, comprising: at least one port configured to couple with an electrosurgical instrument for delivering electrosurgical energy, with the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument; receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0134] Example 27. A computer-implemented method for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy to an electrosurgical instrument for treating tissue, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by a controller having a processor and a memory, a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receiving, by the controller, a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and initiating, by the controller, delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0135] Example 28. A computer-implemented method for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy to an electrosurgical instrument for treating tissue, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by a controller having a processor and a memory, a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receiving, by the controller, a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and initiating, by the controller, delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.A0012912W001

[0136] Example 29. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: receive a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

[0137] Example 30. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: receive an initiation request prompted by a switch on an electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; determine that a return path is present between the first jaw member and the second jaw member based on at least one of: a sensed impedance being within an impedance threshold indicative of tissue contact with the first jaw member and the second jaw member; or a sensed opening angle between the first jaw member and the second jaw member being less than a maximum opening angle therebetween; and initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a multi-step treatment process comprising a tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation.

[0138] Example 31. An electrosurgical system, comprising: an electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a shaft extending distally from the housing; an end effector coupled to a distal end of the shaft, the end effector comprising a first jaw member having a first electrode, a second jaw member having a second electrode, and a third electrode disposed on one of the first jaw member or the second jaw member, wherein the end effector is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and a switch being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, or the third electrode; and a controller having a processor and a memory, with the controller communicatively coupled to the switch and configured to: receive at least one sensor signal corresponding to a sensed parameter of the electrosurgical system; determine, based on the at least one sensor signal, a presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member; and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for at least a tissue sealing operation when the return path is determined to be present.A0012912W001

[0139] Example 32. A computer-implemented method for controlling delivery of electrosurgical energy in an electrosurgical system for treating tissue, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by a controller having a processor and a memory, a request to initiate electrosurgical energy delivery prompted by activation of a switch on the electrosurgical instrument, with the electrosurgical instrument further comprising an end effector with a first jaw member and a second jaw member for treating tissue disposed therebetween; receiving, by the controller, at least one sensor signal corresponding to a sensed parameter of the electrosurgical system; determining, by the controller, a presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member and the second jaw member based on the at least one sensor signal; and initiating, by the controller, delivery of the electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

Claims

A0012912W001CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An electrosurgical system (100), comprising: an electrosurgical instrument (120), comprising: a housing (124); a shaft (126) extending distally from the housing (124); an end effector (128) coupled to a distal end of the shaft (126), the end effector (128) comprising a first jaw member (131) having a first electrode (141), a second jaw member (132) having a second electrode (142), and a third electrode (143) disposed on one of the first jaw member (131) or the second jaw member (132), wherein the end effector (128) is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy for treating tissue disposed between the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132); and a switch (122) being activatable to request initiation of electrosurgical energy delivery through at least one of the first electrode (141), the second electrode (142), or the third electrode (143); and a controller (155) having a processor (156) and a memory (158), with the controller (155) communicatively coupled to the switch (122) and configured to: receive a signal indicative of the presence of a return path through the tissue disposed between the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132); and in response to the initiation request, initiate delivery of electrosurgical energy for a tissue sealing operation when the signal indicates that the return path is present.

2. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 1, wherein the signal indicative of the presence of the return path comprises at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132); a sensed opening angle (135A, 135B, 135C) between the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132); or a sensed pressure between the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132).

3. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 2, wherein the controller (155) is further configured to determine that the return path is present based on the sensed impedance beingA0012912W001 within an impedance threshold indicative of tissue contact with the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132).

4. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 2, wherein the controller (155) is further configured to determine that the return path is present based on the sensed opening angle (135 A, 135B, 135C) being less than a maximum opening angle (135A, 135B, 135C) between the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132).

5. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 2, wherein the controller (155) is further configured to determine that the end effector (128) is in one of a partially clamped state, a fully clamped state, or an open state based on the signal indicative of the presence of the return path.

6. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 5, wherein the controller (155) is further configured to determine that the end effector (128) is in one of a partially clamped state, a fully clamped state, or an open state based on at least one of: a comparison of the sensed impedance with an impedance threshold; a comparison of the sensed pressure with a pressure threshold; or a comparison of the sensed opening angle (135A, 135B, 135C) with a threshold angle.

7. The electrosurgical system (100) of any of claims 1-6, wherein the controller (155) is further configured to automatically initiate a tissue cutting operation upon completion of the tissue sealing operation in response to the initiation request.

8. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 7, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering bipolar energy to the tissue using the first electrode (141) and the second electrode (142).

9. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 8, wherein the tissue cutting operation comprises delivering electrosurgical energy to the tissue using at least the third electrode (143).A0012912W00110. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 7, wherein the tissue sealing operation comprises delivering a first bipolar energy for a first predetermined time interval, and the tissue cutting operation comprises delivering a second bipolar energy for a second predetermined time interval.

11. The electrosurgical system (100) of any of claims 1-10, wherein the electrosurgical instrument (120) comprises a robotic instrument configured for controllable operation by a remote device.

12. The electrosurgical system (100) of any of claims 1-10, wherein the electrosurgical instrument (120) comprises a handheld instrument configured for manual operation in at least one of a laparoscopic environment or an open surgical environment.

13. The electrosurgical system (100) of any of claims 1, 11, or 12, further comprising a sensor assembly communicatively coupled to the controller (155) and configured to output at least one sensor signal indicative of at least one of: a sensed impedance between the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132); a sensed opening angle (135A, 135B, 135C) between the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132); or a sensed pressure between the first jaw member (131) and the second jaw member (132).

14. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 1, wherein the switch (122) is configured for continuous activation, and wherein the controller (155) is further configured to repeatedly initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for the tissue sealing operation automatically followed by a tissue cutting operation while the switch (122) is in continuous activation.

15. The electrosurgical system (100) of claim 14, wherein during continuous activation of the switch (122), the controller (155) is further configured to: upon completion of the tissue cutting operation, perform a check for the presence of the return path; and when the return path is present, initiate delivery of the electrosurgical energy for the tissue sealing operation automatically followed by the tissue cutting operation.

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